“My visit here today shows that we are firm in our commitment to support Montenegro’s aspiration to join our Alliance,” the Deputy Secretary General said. “Montenegro is an important partner for the Alliance and an important aspirant to NATO membership”.

Ambassador Vershbow congratulated Montenegro on the recent opening of accession talks with the European Union.

"We believe that Euro-Atlantic integration remains the most effective way to bring lasting peace, stability and prosperity. Although NATO and EU procedures are distinct, they reinforce each other," he said.

Ambassador Vershbow praised the ongoing commitment of the Montenegrin authorities to pursue political and defence reforms.

"These efforts will be vital for future membership in NATO. I am convinced from my meetings today that Montenegro will continue to work hard to make further progress,” he said.

He thanked Montenegro for the contributions to the ISAF operation in Afghanistan and for the training support to the Afghan National Security Forces.

During his visit, the Deputy Secretary General met with President Filip Vujanović, Prime Minister Igor Lukšić, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Nebojša Kaluđjerović and Minister of Defence Milica Pejanović-Đurišić. He also met with the President of the Parliament, Ranko Krivokapić.